Wales continues to stand out as one of the UK’s most rewarding destinations, and in 2026, it offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, relaxation, and innovation. From dramatic coastlines and mountain escapes to modern wellness experiences and vibrant city life, Wales has something for every type of traveller. If you’re planning a visit this year, these are the top things to add to your itinerary.
Explore Wales’ Reimagined National Parks
Wales’ national parks are taking centre stage in 2026, with Snowdonia (Eryri), Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), and Pembrokeshire Coast offering upgraded visitor experiences while maintaining their wild beauty. New eco-trails, digital guides, and stargazing zones make exploring easier and more immersive than ever. Whether you’re hiking mountain paths, cycling scenic routes, or enjoying peaceful lakeside walks, these landscapes remain a must-see for nature lovers.
Indulge in Wellness Retreats and Spa Escapes
Wellness tourism is booming across Wales in 2026, with countryside retreats and coastal spas becoming increasingly popular. Many hotels and lodges now feature holistic wellness facilities, including outdoor hot tubs, thermal pools, and luxurious steam showers designed to promote deep relaxation. After a day of exploring rugged landscapes, unwinding in a spa environment has become one of the most sought-after experiences for visitors looking to recharge their bodies and minds.
Discover Coastal Adventures and Blue Flag Beaches
Wales boasts over 870 miles of coastline, and 2026 is the perfect year to explore it. Surfing in Rhossili Bay, paddleboarding along the Pembrokeshire Coast, and coastal walks on the Wales Coast Path remain firm favourites. Improved access points and sustainable tourism initiatives have made these areas more welcoming while protecting their natural beauty. Coastal villages also offer fresh seafood, charming cafés, and breathtaking sunset views.
Experience Welsh Culture, Festivals, and Food
Welsh culture is thriving in 2026, with festivals celebrating music, storytelling, and local traditions happening throughout the year. Events like the National Eisteddfod continue to evolve, blending heritage with contemporary creativity. Food tourism is also on the rise, with farm-to-table dining, artisan producers, and modern Welsh cuisine gaining international recognition. Sampling local cheeses, seafood, and craft drinks is now an essential part of any trip.
Enjoy Adventure Experiences with a Modern Twist
For thrill-seekers, Wales remains a playground of adventure. Zip-lining, coasteering, underground trampolining, and climbing experiences are being enhanced with better safety tech and guided experiences suitable for beginners and experts alike.
Stay in Unique and Sustainable Accommodations
Accommodation in Wales has evolved significantly in 2026. Visitors can choose from luxury eco-lodges, converted barns, coastal cabins, and boutique hotels that prioritise sustainability and comfort. Many properties now offer private wellness amenities, such as sauna rooms and outdoor bathing areas, allowing guests to enjoy hotel-level luxury in a secluded setting.
Explore Cities with a Slower Pace
Cardiff, Swansea, and smaller cities like St Davids offer a refreshing mix of history and modern living. In 2026, urban Wales focuses on walkability, green spaces, and independent businesses. Museums, castles, waterfront developments, and local markets make city breaks both relaxing and culturally rich without the rush of larger metropolitan destinations.
Wales in 2026 is all about balance—adventure paired with relaxation, tradition blended with innovation, and natural beauty complemented by modern comforts. Whether you’re soaking in steam showers after a long hike, exploring ancient castles, or enjoying the quiet charm of coastal towns, Wales offers experiences that feel both timeless and refreshingly new.
